Does chocolate toothpaste really work?

Theodent available at Whole Foods, online

HOUSTON - Chocolate is probably the last thing a parent would give their child if they are worried about cavities, but a new chocolate toothpaste now has dentists thinking differently about the benefits of cocoa.

After 10 years of research, Theodent said there is proof that the cocoa extract in the toothpaste is better at strengthening your teeth than fluoride.

Pediatric dentist, Dr. Kasia Lindhorst, says the toothpaste is a good alternative for parents concerned about the effects of fluoride.

"The neat thing about this toothpaste is not that it tastes like chocolate, but it actually is made out of cocoa beans, which according to their claims and the research, have the same tooth strengthening qualities that fluoride does," Lindhorst explained.

Parents have probably noticed the warnings on fluoride toothpaste that it can be harmful if ingested. Since all of the ingredients in Theodent are natural, a child can swallow as much as they like. Although that may set the parents back a bit. The toothpaste costs $9.99 a tube.

Theodent for adults and for kids can be purchased at select Whole Foods stores now. Both are available on Theodent's website now.

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